Joint Custody Lawyer in Virginia
Joint custody in Virginia is governed by the “best interests of the child” standard under Va. Code § 20-124.3. A Joint Custody Lawyer Virginia from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can help you establish or modify a shared custody arrangement. Our firm has handled 4,739+ family law cases across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Statewide — court varies by locality | Virginia General Assembly
In Virginia, joint custody refers to both parents sharing decision-making responsibilities (joint legal custody) and/or parenting time (joint physical custody). The court’s primary concern is the child’s welfare, evaluating factors like each parent’s ability to cooperate, the child’s needs, and the existing relationship with each parent. A Joint Custody Lawyer Virginia is essential for presenting a case that aligns with these statutory factors.
For official statutes, refer to the Virginia Code § 20-124.3 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and local rules can be found on the Virginia Judicial System website.
- Consult with a Virginia family law attorney to review your situation and goals.
- File a petition for custody or a motion to modify an existing order in the appropriate juvenile and domestic relations district court.
- Participate in court-ordered mediation or a custody evaluation if directed.
- Attend a hearing where both parents present evidence supporting the proposed custody plan.
- The judge issues a final order detailing legal custody, physical custody, and a visitation schedule.
In Virginia, child custody determinations are based on the child’s best interests, not a presumption for or against joint custody.
| Type | Legal Standard | Primary Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Joint Legal Custody | Shared decision-making | Ability of parents to cooperate on major issues (education, health, welfare) |
| Joint Physical Custody | Shared parenting time | Proximity of parents, child’s schedule, stability |
| Sole Custody | One parent has primary authority | History of abuse, alienation, or inability to cooperate |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience, our firm provides full representation in family law matters. Mr. Sris personally played a role in amending Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating deep involvement in Virginia family law.
Samantha Rae Powers, Associate Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA, FL. Experienced family law and civil litigator. View Samantha Rae Powers’s Profile
Our firm-wide results across multiple states include 4,739+ documented case outcomes with a 93%+ favorable rate. In family law, favorable outcomes include achieving client goals for custody time, support agreements, and equitable property division. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Fairfax location serves clients across Virginia. We are a joint legal and physical custody lawyer Virginia for families in communities statewide. Contact a Joint Custody Lawyer Virginia near you for a consultation.
Virginia Joint Custody FAQs
How is child custody decided in Virginia?
Virginia courts decide custody based on the child’s best interests under Va. Code § 20-124.3, evaluating ten specific factors including each parent’s role, the child’s relationship with each parent, and any history of family abuse.
Does Virginia favor joint custody?
No. Virginia law does not presume joint custody is best. The court awards any custody arrangement—joint or sole—that serves the child’s best interests after reviewing all statutory factors.
What is the difference between legal and physical custody in Virginia?
Legal custody is the right to make major decisions about a child’s health, education, and welfare. Physical custody refers to where the child lives. Parents can share both (joint), share one but not the other, or one parent can have sole responsibility.
Can a custody order be modified in Virginia?
Yes. A parent can file a petition to modify custody if there has been a material change in circumstances affecting the child’s welfare since the last order, and the proposed change is in the child’s best interests.
How does a parent get joint custody in Virginia?
A parent seeks joint custody by filing a petition in the juvenile and domestic relations district court. The court will consider the parents’ ability to communicate and cooperate, as a shared custody arrangement lawyer Virginia can help demonstrate this capacity to the judge.
For more information, see our Virginia Family Law hub page. We also assist clients in Henrico County and with other legal matters in Virginia.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.